Tianlian I


Tianlian I, also known as Tian Lian 1, TL-1, and CTDRS-1 is a Chinese data tracking and relay communications satellite series. Based on the DFH-3 satellite bus, it will provide communication coverage for manned Shenzhou missions, from Shenzhou 7 onwards. Functionally, it is similar to the United States Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System.
The first satellite of the series, Tianlian I-01, was launched on the maiden flight of the Long March 3C carrier rocket, at 15:35 GMT on 25 April 2008, from LC-2 at the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. Tianlian I-01 is able to cover around half of the spacecraft's trajectory, compared to around 12 percent which had been covered using tracking stations and a fleet of ships. Tianlian I-02 was launched on 11 July 2011, Tianlian I-03 on 25 July 2012 and Tianlian I-04 on 22 November 2016. The satellites are in geostationary orbit.

Tianlian-1 satellites

Tianlian I-01 is the first Tracking and Data Relay Satellite launched by People's Republic of China, and the first satellite of Tianlian I TDRS series. The satellite has multiple roles and will especially serve for China's manned spaceflight. Its first task could be for the Shenzhou 7 communication.

Launch

The satellite was launched successfully by the Long March 3C rocket in Xichang Satellite Launch Centre at local time 23:35 April 25, 2008. It was the 105th launch of the Long March Rocket Family. The rocket had 3 stages, 2 roll boosters, a 55 m height; and was liquid-fueled. Its initial weight was ~343 t.
Its history includes: